Wunda Chair Springs Guide
Known for its intensity and versatility, the Wunda Chair challenges your strength, stability, and control in every session. One of the most important (and often overlooked) aspects of using the Wunda Chair effectively is understanding its spring settings. Whether you’re a student or teacher of the Pilates method, knowing how to adjust the springs will help you get the most out of every movement.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of spring settings for both classical and contemporary Wunda Chairs, so you can practice with more confidence and control.
Click the button below to download your FREE downloadable Wunda Springs Guide PDF! 👇
Spring Setup Tips
Set your chair up for Pilatesology workouts in 3 steps:
1. If your chair has a split pedal, lock it into one pedal
2. If your chair has handles, remove them
3. If you have more than 2 springs, use the 2 heavier ones; ignore or remove the others
• Higher = heavier. The higher up your spring setting, the heavier the resistance
• Lower = lighter. The lower down your spring settings, the lighter the resistance
• Hands on pedal is always 1 spring middle
• Feet on pedal start at 1Top, 1Bottom. Go heavier or lighter depending on body needs
Classical vs. Contemporary: What’s the Difference?
Spring placement varies depending on the style of Wunda Chair you’re using. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Classical Wunda (Gratz®, etc.) | Contemporary Wunda (Balanced Body®, BASI®, etc.) |
|---|---|
| 2 Springs Top | 2 Heavy Top |
| 1 Spring Top / 1 Bottom | 1 Heavy Top / 1 Heavy Bottom |
| 2 Springs Middle | 2 Heavy on Either Middle Setting |
| 1 Spring Middle | 1 Heavy on Either Middle Setting |
*Classical Wunda Chairs include: Gratz®, Techno®, Legacy®, Pilates Designs®, Contrology®, etc.
*Contemporary Wunda Chairs include: Balanced Body®, BASI®, Merrithew/Stott®, BASI®, Exo®, MVe® etc.
Classical Wunda Chair (Gratz®) 
Contemporary Wunda Chair (BASI®)
Why Spring Settings Matter
The resistance created by the springs is what gives the Wunda Chair its magic. It challenges your stability, strength, and coordination—especially when you’re standing on top or balancing on the pedal. But if the springs are too light, you might miss the support your body needs. Too heavy, and you could be fighting unnecessary resistance.
Learning the correct settings ensures you’re working in alignment with your goals—and with the original intention of the method.
Follow Along with Miguel Silva’s Wunda Chair Springs Guide
Looking for a list of exercises and spring settings?
👉 Here’s a downloadable PDF of the Wunda Chair Classical Exercise Order! 👈
NOTE: Pilatesology uses Classical Wunda Chairs, the brand we recommend is Gratz®.
Check out these videos on Wunda Chair maintenance:
From the Community